Nottingham, UK, 16 Feb 2007 - 3D Laser Mapping has supplied a high performance laser scanning system to assist with a European research project to map the footprints of dinosaurs. The project, jointly undertaken by the University of Manchester and Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, used an advanced RIEGL laser scanner with integrated digital camera and satellite positioning technology to accurately record and locate individual dinosaur footprints. The project is tracing the movements of dinosaurs and is assessing the effects of weathering and erosion on the footprints.

“This project would simply not have been possible without the laser scanning system,” said Dr David Hodgetts, Lecturer in Reservoir Modelling and Petroleum Geology, School of Earth, Atmospheric and Environmental Sciences at The University of Manchester. “Due to the fragile environment and the sensitivity of the site we were not permitted direct contact and therefore all measurements had to taken remotely. Laser scanning allowed the rapid, high resolution digital mapping of an otherwise inaccessible site.”

Manchester University has one of the largest groups of researchers in the UK with expertise in a range of specialist subjects including Palaeontology and Dinosaur Locomotion. This project will document and record the effects of weathering and erosion on the dinosaur relics and provide a permanent record in order that researchers can understand the movements of these ancient reptiles.

The portable RIEGL LMS Z420i laser scanner system comprises of a high performance long range 3D laser scanner, software and an integrated high resolution digital camera. The laser transmits a light pulse, from a known position and at a known angle, which is reflected off a surface or feature and bounced back to a receiver. Using the time taken for each individual pulse to be returned and the known value of the speed of light the system can automatically calculate the distance of the feature from the unit. From this data highly detailed and accurate 3D models can be produced.

3D Laser Mapping is a Nottinghamshire based specialist in laser scanning solutions and the Riegl Premier Distributor for the UK, Ireland and sub-Saharan Africa. 3D Laser Mapping integrate laser scanner hardware systems with their own software and peripherals to create robust solutions for mapping, mining and manufacturing to name just a few.